Trade-Mark. A distinguishing mark or device adopted by a manufacturer or jobber and impressed on his goods and labels to indicate their origin. In the United States the protection of trade-marks is provided for by statute. The earliest trade-marks were those used in the manufacture of paper, and which are known as water-marks These date as far back as 1361, that is, shortly after the invention of making paper from rags. Tram. Silk thread employed for wefts. [See Silk]